Apostasy consists of renouncing or disassociating oneself from a particular religion or certain religious beliefs. For example, someone converts to another religion or defies and rebels against some beliefs or practices. Paul wrote “the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared.” (1 Tim 4:1-2)

An apostate teacher or preacher is disguised “as an angel of light” meaning he looks like he is teaching the gospel but he is really apostate and what he teaches is actually apostasy or the doctrine of demons. Paul would identify “such men false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.” (2 Cor 11:13-15)

If a Christian is not growing in biblical knowledge his powers of Discernment are not trained by constant practice in the Word and he cannot distinguish good from evil teachings by apostates. “They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.” (Titus 1:16) Anyone can profess but not all possess true faith in Jesus Christ and certainly not all teach it. The best way to avoid apostasy and reject the teachings of apostates is to read and study the Word of God, the Bible, because the best way to identify the counterfeit is to know the genuine article.

The Liturgy of the Word during Mass is an excellent forum to learn the genuine Word. Unfortunately, our assemblies are shrinking and our churches are closing. Where did the believers go? Are they heeding to false prophets now? Apostasy is actually pervasive and Satan is very active particularly with our youth at The End Times. Are we overlooking Christ’s Second Coming? His angels will gather the saints, including the living in the state of grace, to enter directly into God’s Kingdom. We won’t have to expiate our sins in Purgatory … abundant Grace. Seize this outpouring of Grace!